A talented young centre-back whom West Brom bought from Luton? Someone tell Martin O'Neill, quick!
A tall, powerful centre-back, Barnett became the second highly-prized defender to join Albion from Luton Town, when he followed Curtis Davies to the Hawthorns for £2.5 million in 2006.
His rise to prominence at the Hatters – his local club – was phenomenal, going from the U17s to the senior team, via the U19s and reserves, within the space of one season.
In his first season with the Baggies, he continued at breakneck speed, quickly establishing himself as a reliable presence at the heart of defence and chipping in with several goals from set pieces.
West Brom’s success last season cost them a further £250,000 payment to Luton Town, for Barnett’s part in their promotion to the top flight. It's a price they were happy to pay, on several different levels.